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Don't you see, Doctor?" said Lasher. "The machines are to…

“Don't you see, Doctor?" said Lasher. "The machines are to practically everbody what the white men were to the Indians. People are finding that, because of the way the machines are changing the world, more and more of their old values don't apply any more. People have no choice but to become…” quote by Kurt Vonnegut
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““Don't you see, Doctor?" said Lasher. "The machines are to practically everbody what the white men were to the Indians. People are finding that, because of the way the machines are changing the world, more and more of their old values don't apply any more. People have no choice but to become second-rate machines themselves, or wards of the machines.””

Kurt Vonnegut

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Technology can erode human values, forcing people into subordinate roles or dependence on machines.

In simple terms: Machines can diminish humanity and autonomy.

Key Takeaway

Guard human values against blind tech adoption.

Themes

technology humanity dehumanization

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • education
  • policy making
  • personal life

Key Concepts

automation value erosion social stratification

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we preserve dignity in a tech‑driven world?
  • What values must we protect?
A Different Perspective

Human agency can still shape technology's role.

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